Dogs may not be able to take selfies (yet), but they still have plenty of swag on social media.

Klooff, an app that lets pet owners share photos of their cats and dogs, found the most popular dog breeds in each country based on posts to the service, as well as the biggest social media trends involving our furry friends (via Mashable).

While some of the results are expected, like the poodle's popularity in France (how cliché), others were more surprising, like the U.S.' love for the French Bulldog and Argentina's obsession with English Bulldogs (what?).

And according to Klooff, cats rule in the social media world, with their photos getting 2.3 times more shares than dog photos.

Klooff looked at the most recent 50,500+ posts on its app and analyzed the types of breeds that each country posts about the most, which ones increased/decreased popularity in the last year, and the digital engagement of each share.

Check out the infographic below:

SEE ALSO: The Philippines Has A Bizarre Massage Practice Involving Giant Snakes

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"Dog people" and "cat people" really do have different personalities, according to a new study.

People who said they were dog lovers in the study tended to be more lively — meaning they were more energetic and outgoing — and also tended to follow rules closely. Cat lovers, on the other hand, were more introverted, more open-minded and more sensitive than dog lovers. Cat people also tended to be non-conformists, preferring to be expedient rather than follow the rules.

And in a finding that's sure to spark rivalries among pet owners, cat lovers scored higher on intelligence than dog lovers. [Here, Kitty, Kitty: 10 Facts for Cat Lovers]

Part of the reason for the personality differences may be related to the types of environments cat or dog people prefer, said study researcher Denise Guastello, an associate professor of psychology at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, who presented the findings here at the annual Association for Psychological Science meeting.

"It makes sense that a dog person is going to be more lively, because they're going to want to be out there, outside, talking to people, bringing their dog," Guastello said. "Whereas, if you're more introverted, and sensitive, maybe you're more at home reading a book, and your cat doesn't need to go outside for a walk."

The researchers surveyed 600 college students, asking whether they would identify themselves as dog lovers or cat lovers, and what qualities they found most attractive in their pets. Participants also answered a slew of questions to assess their personality.

More people said they were dog lovers than cat lovers: About 60 percent of participants identified themselves as dog people, compared with 11 percent who said they were cat people. (The rest said they liked both animals, or neither animal.)

Dog lovers found companionship to be the most attractive quality in their pet dogs, while cat people liked the affection from their cats.

It's possible that people may select pets based on their own personality, Guastello said. For example, cats are often seen as independent animals that keep to themselves, and are cautious of others.

"If you're like that, you appreciate that in an animal, it's a better match for you," Guastello said.

Studying the reasons people identify as cat or dog lovers may also improve pet therapy, leading to better matches between owners and pets who participate in pet therapy, the researcher said.

Because the study involved college students, it's not known whether the results apply to other age groups, Guastello said. But previous studies have had similar findings. A 2010 study of more than 4,500 people found that dog lovers tend to be more extroverted (or outgoing), and conscientious (or rule-following).

Follow Rachael Rettner @RachaelRettner. FollowLive Science @livescience, Facebook&Google+. Original article onLive Science.

• 7 Surprising Health Benefits of Dog Ownership
• 6 Secrets to Unlocking Your Cat's Personality
• 10 Things You Didn't Know About Dogs

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SEE ALSO: In Tokyo, Apartments Now Come With Cats

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The Japanese LOVE their dogs.

They dress them up in ridiculous outfits.

They spend tons of money on grooming (this one is shaved to look like a lion). 

So perhaps it's not surprising that one of the world's first nursing homes for elderly canines is set to open outside Tokyo later this month.

That's right. An old folks home for dogs.

The facility run by Aeon Pet, a subsidiary of the Japanese supermarket brand Aeon, is expected to start with 20 dogs and provide them access to a gym, a pool and 24-hour veterinarian care.

There's also a large grooming room, and owners can stay with terminally-ill pets.

Demand is already running high, according to Aeon.

"We decided to open the nursing facility because so many dog owners have requested something like this," company spokeswoman Nanako Oiishi told The Telegraph.

"Many Japanese people have pets now, but of course they get old and it can become difficult to care for them."

The cost will depend on a dog's size and breed, but it will average about $1,000 a month.

While that's less than half the average monthly salary of most Japanese, we're willing to bet it would be a lot more to a retiree or others on a
 fixed income.

Still, there was a push in Japan last year to make owners responsible for their pets until their deaths. This could also be a good way to reduce the number of stray dogs killed by local authorities.

Aero said it hopes to expand the concept to other cities in Japan and around the world.

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Whistle, a wearable activity tracker for dogs, lets you know when your dog is at his or her most active times.

As your dog walks, eats, and sleeps, Whistle records his or her activity and shows it to you via its smartphone app. All the data syncs via a Bluetooth connection.

Thanks to Whistle, one woman quickly realized that something was wrong with her dog, the company's CEO Ben Jacobs told Business Insider.

The dog wasn't moving as much as he usually did. Feeling alarmed, she immediately went home to find her dog all curled up and not moving. It turns out that a rattlesnake had bit her dog. After she caught the rattlesnake, she rushed her little pup to the vet. 

After all of the craziness died down, Jacobs says, the woman called the company in tears, thanking them.

For $129, you get a small, stainless stell disc that you can clip onto your dog's collar. Whistle is currently available nationwide at retailers like PetSmart and as of today, Brookstone. 

Over 1% of the dog owners in New York and San Francisco use Whistle, but the company won't disclose how many devices it has sold. To date, Whistle has raised $6 million from DCM, Red Swan, and Gunderson Dettmer.

SEE ALSO: Startup BarkBox Hosted A Puppy Adoption Event To Save The Lives Of Innocent Animals

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New Englanders love cats, and Southerners love dogs.

The American Veterinary Medical Association's "2012 U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook" summarizes results from a survey of over 50,000 households on various aspects of pet ownership. One thing that they track are rates of cat and dog ownership among different states.

Here's a comparison of cat ownership with dog ownership. Orange states have more dog owners than cat owners, and purple states have more cat owners than dog owners:

We also looked closer at the extent to which each pet is favored in each state. In this map, purple again indicates more cat owners than dog owners, and orange more dog owners than cat owners. The darker each color, the bigger the difference:

New England is very much cat country. In Vermont, about half of households own cats, while about 38% own dogs. Similarly, 46% of Mainers own cats, but just 35% own dogs.

New York and Delaware are evenly split: in New York, 29% of households own cats, and about the same proportion own dogs, and in Delaware, cat owning and dog owning households are tied at about 34% each.

The South is much more favorable to dogs than to cats. In Arkansas, 48% of households own dogs, but just 31% own cats.

This regional divide can also be seen when looking at ownership of each animal. Here's dog ownership across the country. Dogs are very popular in the South:

Here's cat ownership across America. As we saw above, New England and the Pacific Northwest are full of cats:

One final observation is that neither cats nor dogs are overly common in Washington, DC. Only 13% of households in the capital own dogs, and just 12% own cats.

SEE ALSO: Motor Sports, Reality TV, And Wrestling Are Popular Interests Among The Least Educated People In America

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In the world of video games, you can be a ninja, a bird, a basketball player, and even a goat.

Now, you can add "dog" to the list.

That's thanks to a new virtual game called "Dog Park," created by New York-based game designer Kevin Cancienne.

The goal of the game is to be a dog. You play, wrestle, dig holes, bounce around, and otherwise act cute. That's the entire point of the game.

"'Dog Park' is a pretty big departure for me,"Cancienne told Kill Screen Daily in a recent interview. "Not only is it in a genre and format I haven't worked in much — it's a 3-D arcade game with lots of animation and physics — but I’ve let the free-flowing, organic, bottom-up qualities I appreciate about dog play come through."

Unlike "Goat Simulator," which is more like an old-school skating game, gameplay here is rather simple. In "Goat Simulator" you can make your goat backflip and jump and crash into things, all in the name of grabbing more points and beating your high score.

But in "Dog Park," there are no points to rack up or things to kill. You basically just play. Like a dog. 

"When it comes to play, the dog’s only goal is to keep on having more fun," Cancienne said. 

The game will be presented at No Quarter, a yearly exhibition hosted by the NYU Game Center, in September.  

SEE ALSO: The Kim Kardashian mobile game broke, and fans of the game were frantic

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At the trendy James Hotel in SoHo, New York, on Tuesday evening, pooches and their two-legged companions entered a room near the roof deck bar to snag couture costumes for the impending Halloween.

Lined up on tables were deflated caterpillars, bumble bees, and bats. Shiny sharks were next to hamburgers, banana splits, and cowboys.

And while the costumes seem silly, the industry isn't. Last year, 22 million Americans bought costumes for their pets, spending an estimated $330 million.

We couldn't quite gauge the enthusiasm of the dogs at this fashion show by PetSmart, but their owners seemed unabashedly stoked.

But as cute as our furry friends may be, their wide eyes and wagging tails can't save them from the scrutiny of the catwalk.

So, without further adieu:

This golden retriever opted for the banana split costume. While we like the theme of 'retro dessert,' we think she should have picked something that didn't wash her coat out so much. 

Meanwhile, this smaller pooch got flashy in a bright caterpillar rider.

A tiny Pomeranian exhibits some diva-like behavior in her Martha Stewart tutu and hair feathers. 

But it's not all fun and games. The Golden Retriever has returned in a no-nonsense shark costume...

...and there seems to be a bit of drama when this dog puts on a Miss Piggy wig. She is NOT having it.

Meanwhile, this guinea pig is loving its pumpkin-themed costume. PetSmart confided that guinea pig outfits "exploded" last year, prompting them to make a ton more.

Bearded Dragons get in on the fun too. This guy looks radiant in his ethereal purple wings. 

If you've ever seen behind-the-scenes of the fashion show, you know the styling isn't a one-man job. Here, concerned handlers help this dog transform into Eeyore.

And we'd say the finished product was well worth it.

This year's costumes range from $12.99 to $26.99, and come in sizes XS to XXL. They go on sale in PetSmart stores Monday.

SEE ALSO: A 17-Year-Old Yo-Yo Genius Won The World Title With These Incredible Tricks

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The makers of GoPro, a tiny and light portable camera, have released a new product just for dogs: A harness that holds two cameras to record things from your canine’s perspective.

The GoPro Fetch is a kit that comes with a dog harness, a camera tether, and software needed to set it up on any model of GoPro. It’s your job to provide the pooch and the GoPro camera. Here's a video that explains how the product works, which we've also broken out into screenshots. 

GoPro says that the device is capable of mounting onto your dog’s back, so you can capture shots of your dog running, jumping and of course, playing fetch. Here's an action shot:

The strap also allows a GoPro to hang from the chest, where you can view shots of your dog’s front paws. The chest mount is removable, too.

The pack includes easily adjustable straps to fit dogs of all sizes, from 15 up to 120 pounds. 

GoPro says the harness is comfortable and won't prevent your dog from from enjoying activities like running, swimming or playing Frisbee. 

Although you’ll need to fork out $59.99 to buy the Fetch, it may be worth your investment if you want to see what your pet gets up to when you’re at work. 

SEE ALSO: See what other amazing things you can record with a GoPro camera

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Dogs are the best.

Incredibly loyal, they comfort, protect, and love their humans unconditionally, making dogs superior to any other pet out there.

But not all dogs are created equal. In celebration of National Dog Day, we ranked the 11 best dog breeds, based on factors including health, personality, and overall popularity.

11. Portuguese Water Dogs

Portuguese water dogs were originally bred to herd fish, retrieve lost tackle or broken nets, and act as couriers from ship to shore.

They’re good for people with allergies and make excellent companions since they are loving, independent, intelligent, and easy to train.

Portuguese water dogs also enjoy being petted and are friendly with strangers. Just be warned that like many larger dogs, boredom can cause them to become destructive.

10. Newfoundland Dogs

Known as “nature’s babysitter,” Newfoundland Dogs are the absolute sweetest. Perhaps the best-known Newfoundland is the fictional Nana from “Peter Pan,” who was so wonderful with children.

These gentle giants are highly loyal and easy to train, and are legendary for their docile temper.

Newfoundland dogs are also strong swimmers, and the breed was trained to rescue people from drowning — one dog even famously saved Napoleon Bonaparte.

9. Maltese

One of the most ancient of the toy breeds, Maltese dogs were bred to be sweet and adoring of their owners. The Greeks even erected tombs for their Maltese dogs, and in Elizabethan times, they were called “The Comforter” because it was believed they could relieve pain and cure illness.

Maltese dogs are also extremely hypoallergenic, with silky coats that don’t shed.

And because of their size, these dogs are good for apartment living, too.

8. Golden Retrievers

Goldens are sweet, loyal, and incredible companion dogs. They’d rather be sleeping at your feet then running around outside without you.

They’re also very even-tempered, especially with small children. Goldens make great service and comfort dogs because of their friendly and tolerant attitudes.

Plus they were bred to retrieve ducks and other fowl for hunters, so if you like playing fetch, this is the dog for you.

7. Huskies

Siberian huskies are stunning animals, with their thick fur coat and piercing eyes. Most people who choose a Husky do so for their extraordinary beauty.

Huskies are good natured dogs who are affectionate with children. They shed minimally, except for twice a year when they blow out their coat, and don’t have the typical “dog odor” that bigger breeds tend to have.

Huskies are not considered a great breed for first-time dog owners, since they need a lot of attention, exercise, and are very good as escaping and running away.

6. Poodles

Poodles get a bad rap. But they’re easy to train since they’re so intelligent, and are lively, fun-loving, and loyal family dogs. 

Poodles can be attention seekers, so don’t be surprised if this people-oriented breed is constantly with you.

They’re also protective of their families and homes, and can become aggressive with people outside the family or with other dogs.

5. Beagles

Because of their intelligence, Beagles are used by law enforcement at airports to sniff baggage for items that are not permitted. Due to their friendly nature and appearance, Beagles don’t worry passengers.

This breed also has a lack of inherited health problems, and an even temper which is good for families and small children.

The most common reason Beagles are abandoned or turned over to the pound is because their owners couldn’t stand their howling. This can be controlled by training your dog early to avoid excessive barking.

4. German Shepherds

A relatively new breed (they date back to 1899), German Shepherds are exceptional animals: Courageous, obedient, incredibly loyal, and eager to learn.

German Shepherds are very intelligent too, and excel at most anything they’re trained to do. They’re usually used as service dogs and police dogs to protect officers and locate drugs or human remains.

German Shepherds love their humans so much that they will suffer from separation anxiety, and can become destructive when bored alone at home.

3. Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Corgis have a cult-like following mainly due to their playful and sweet personalities. According to Welsh mythology, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was even the transportation mode of choice for fairies.

Though they can be shy with strangers, Corgis are good with children and have a strong desire to please their owners.

They’re also one of the silliest-looking dogs, with huge ears, a long torso, and a big butt. Just monitor their food intake closely since this breed is prone to overeating.

2. Labrador Retrievers

There’s a reason why Labs are the most popular breed in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, as well as here in the U.S. They are devoted and obedient and have even temperaments that make them good with both children and other animals. 

Bred to be eager to please and playful companions, Labs are smart and commonly chosen as guide dogs and service dogs for blind or autistic individuals.

They also make understanding therapy dogs, and can be trained to aid law enforcement and other official agencies by screening and detection work.

1. Mixed Breeds

No matter what mix of breeds, mutts are awesome. Mixed-breeds are believed to have less genetically inherited health problems than purebreds, according to veterinarian Dr. Sarah Ward Fatula.

Plus, if you adopt your mixed-breed from the shelter, not only will they already be spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date with vaccines, but you’ll also be helping with the pet overpopulation problem.

To find a shelter near you, visit the ASPCA’s website.

NOW WATCH: Why The Corgi Is The Internet's Favorite Dog

SEE ALSO: The 10 Most Heroic Dogs Of All Time

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An Oklahoma City K-9 police dog was laid to rest on August 28 with full honors after being stabbed to death by a burglary suspect on August 24. 

Kye was three-years-old. The funeral was open to the public and attracted broad support from the community, along with other canine handlers and their partners from across the state. The funeral featured a touching tribute video, which we have highlighted in a series of GIFs below. 

The tribute video heavily focused on the heartwarming relationship between Kye and his handler, Sgt. Ryan Stark. 

Canine handlers and their dogs must build up an incredibly strong bond that relies on complete trust in times of stress. 

This bond relies on both strict training, and a mutual connection. 

The tribute also highlighted Kye's physical agility ...

... As well as his ability to carry out attack commands. 

The video ended with Stark, saying "goodnight, buddy." 

Kye was killed in the line of duty after tackling a car theft subject, identified as 22-year-old Mark Salazar, following a high speed chase. During the chase, Salazar's tires were blown out and he attempted to flee the police on foot.

Stark sicced Kye on Salazar. Stark proceeded to call Kye back, but Salazar had reportedly stabbed the dog multiple times by that point. 

After witnessing the stabbing, Stark allegedly fatally shot Salazar on the spot.

Stark is currently under investigation for whether he was justified in his use of deadly force. 

You can see the full heart-breaking tribute video on Facebook»

SEE ALSO: This amazing training technique helps military dogs learn to sniff out bombs

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A sports catering CEO who was caught on camera kicking his friend's dog has resigned, according to a statement from the company's board of directors.

The statement from Centerplate, a multibillion-dollar company that provides concessions for major arenas around the world, says CEO Des Hague's resignation comes as a result of his "personal misconduct involving the mistreatment of an animal in his care."

Board chairman Joe O’Donnell said in the statement:

We want to reiterate that we do not condone nor would we ever overlook the abuse of animals. Following an extended review of the incident involving Mr. Hague, I’d like to apologize for the distress that this situation has caused to so many; but also thank our employees, clients, and guests who expressed their feelings about this incident. Their voices helped us to frame our deliberations during this very unusual and unfortunate set of circumstances.

Hague's actions set off a firestorm last week when footage surfaced that showed him kicking a dog and yanking it by its leash inside an elevator in a Vancouver apartment building.

After the video was released, Hague agreed to donate $100,000 to establish a foundation that will help animals in Vancouver and to complete 1,000 hours of community service at an animal-protection agency. He also agreed to attend anger-management counseling.

Hague also released this statement:

I am ashamed and deeply embarrassed a minor frustration with a friend's pet caused me to lose control of my emotional response. I would like to extend my apology to my family, company, and clients, as I understand that this has also reflected negatively on them.

But as the story spread, calls for Hague's resignation grew, and Fortune speculated the scandal might hurt Centerplate's business. Some sports fans said they would refuse to purchase food in arenas catered by Centerplate.

Hague could face criminal charges in Vancouver, according to ESPN.

Here's the video of the dog-kicking incident (it might be too graphic for some):

SEE ALSO: The CEO Of A $6 Billion Company Was Caught On Camera Kicking A Dog

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One of life’s greatest tragedies is that our sweet, loyal, and furry pet companions don’t live as long as we do.

Our friends at FindTheBest put together a list of the longest-living dog breeds using information from the American Kennel Club, as well as crowd-sourced info from FindTheBest users on the Dog Breeds topic page. 

Keep reading to see the 25 longest living pups, ranging from pure breeds to famous mixes.

25. Pomeranian 

Pomeranians are an animated toy breed that come from the region of Pomerania (now present day Germany/Poland). They became popular in 1888 when Queen Victoria fell in love with a Pomeranian in Florence, Italy, and brought it back to England.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 16 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 14 Years

24. Coton de Tulear

These sweet white dogs date back to the 15th century in Madagascar’s city of Tulear. When the French colonized Madagascar, they fell in love with the human-oriented pups and brought them back to Europe.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 16 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

23. Toy Manchester Terrier

Originating from the Black and Tan Terrier, these tiny dogs were bred to hunt rats and other vermin. They’re extremely smart and loyal, and are good watch dogs (though a bit neurotic).

Maximum Life Expectancy: 16 years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 years

22. (Scotch/Scottish) Collie

These intelligent drover dogs were bred to herd sheep and cattle in the Scottish highlands. They are a devoted family dog, have no “doggie odor,” and require daily walks.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 16 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

21. Rustralian Terrier

A cross between an Australian Terrier and Jack Russell Terrier, the Rustralian Terrier is known for having a lot of energy and being highly committed to its owner. Because they are a mixed breed, their temperaments can be diverse.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 16 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years 

20. Pom-Coton

Another hybrid, the Pom-Coton is a cross between a Pomeranian and Coton de Tulear. They’re tiny dogs that are quick learners, eager to please, and good at tricks.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 16 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

19. Boykin Spaniel 

The official State Dog of South Carolina, the Boykin Spaniel is an energetic hunting breed. It has the stamina to work and play all day, so make sure you can keep up with this active dog.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 16 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

18. Pomchi (Chi-Pom, Chiranian)

A cross between a Pomeranian and a Chihuahua, Pomchis are super cute with pointed ears and big eyes. Though they can be stubborn and yappy, for the most part they are good-natured and super human-oriented.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years 

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

17. Lacasapoo

The Lacasapoo is a hybrid breed combines a Cockapoo and Lhasa Apso. They are extremely intelligent and learn tricks easily, and are very gentle with children and other pets in the house.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

16. Jack Chi

A mix of a Jack Russell Terrier and a Chihuahua, the Jack Chi is an eager-to-please and loving dog that will make the perfect companion. Try not to overfeed them though because they will eat everything in front of them (and not stop).

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

15. Rattle (Radle, Ratoodle)

A Rat Terrier and Poodle mix, Rattles vary widely in size and color depending on their parents. Their fur is more hypoallergenic thanks to their poodle parents, and they are very affectionate.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

14. Rattle Griffon (Griffon Rat Terrier)

The mix of a Brussels Griffon and a Rat Terrier, this is another small breed that is very alert. They are not known for being good with children, however, and are better with families with no kids or teens.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

13. Australian Shepard

Often called “Aussies,” these pups are prized for their herding ability and intelligence. They are a little high maintenance because they are extremely energetic and require daily exercise as well as weekly brushing. But it's worth it.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

12. Cheenese (Havahuahua)

Another Chihuahua cross, this time with a Havanese, the Cheenese are toy breeds that are independent, but also extremely loyal and social. They do shed moderately, so these dogs require regular grooming. 

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

11. Ratshi Terrier 

A cross between a Rat Terrier and a Shih Tzu, Ratshi Terriers are very smart and low maintenance, having been bred for indoor living and companionship. They are generally very happy and lively pups.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 20 years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 years

10. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos were once the household sentinels of Tibetan nobility and Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayan Mountains. They are quite independent and suspicious of strangers, which makes them good as indoor watchdogs (despite their size).

Maximum Life Expectancy: 20 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

9. Shih Tzu

The word Shih Tzu means “lion,” but these dogs are very sweet and have been cherished by Chinese Royals since the Ming Dynasty. They were bred to be house pets and companions, and are alert, friendly, and trusting.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 20 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 15 Years

8. Lagotto Romagnolo

Meaning “lake dog from Romagna,” the Lagotto Romagnolo comes from the Romagna sub-region of Italy. Bred as a water retriever and sometimes used to hunt for truffles, the Lagotto can become destructive if they’re not given stimulation.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 17 years

Average Life Expectancy: 16 year 

7. Ratese

The product of an American Rat Terrier and a Maltese, Ratese is a small companion dog that is good with young children. They can be snappish, but love playing, cuddling, and human attention. 

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 16 Years

6. Rat-Cha 

A Rat Terrier-Chihuahua cross, the Rat-Cha is a bright and happy pet. They are very loyal and amiable towards their family, though the Rat-Cha can be temperamental and aggressive with other dogs.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 16 Years 

5. Cockapoo

A hybrid of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, Cockapoos are super cute with a thick, wavy coat that is low in dander. They have outgoing and loving personalities that sometimes cause them to suffer from separation anxiety. 

Maximum Life Expectancy: 18 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 16 Years

4. Toy Poodle

Smaller than a standard-size Poodle, Toy Poodles are very dedicated to their families and just as intelligent and alert as their larger counterparts. They require plenty of physical and mental exercise too, like indoor games and short walks.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 20 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 16 Years

3. Jack Russell Terrier

Originating in England and developed in Australia, the Jack Russell Terrier is a strong, sturdy, and hard-working breed. These pups are faithful and intelligent, and need to spend a great deal of time outdoors due to their copious energy.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 20 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 16 Years

2. Chihuahua

The history of this tiny breed remains a mystery, but some believe they originate from the Fennec Fox due to their big eyes and ears with a tiny frame. They are gentle and patient with children, and require little exercise because of their size.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 20 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 17 Years

1. New Guinea Singing Dog

This breed is a true wild dog that was once found throughout New Guinea (they’re thought to be descendants of Australian dingos). They’re known in particular for their melodious howl and are very gentle and friendly with people, though originally shy.

Maximum Life Expectancy: 20 Years

Average Life Expectancy: 18 Years

All breed information courtesy of the American Kennel Club, DogBreedInfo.com, as well as FindTheBest Dog Breeds.

SEE ALSO: The 11 Best Dog Breeds

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Back in 2012, photographer Seth Casteel became a sudden, global hit when he published a set of photos of what dogs look like when they're diving under water.

The water pulls on dogs' fur, ears and lips, making them look both ludicrous and vicious at the same time.

Now we have a sequel. Casteel is publishing a new book, Underwater Puppies, which is exactly what you think it is: Amazing shots of what puppies look like when they're scrabbling for a tennis ball in a swimming pool.

Casteel gets his shots by tossing toys into backyard swimming pools, and waiting for the dogs to dive in after them.

This is what an adult dog looks like: Notice that the water has a crazy effect on their lips, ears, eyes and fur.

With puppies, it's a little different. They don't have as much loose flesh, so ...

A Florida cat managed to hang onto one of his nine lives after receiving a life-saving blood transfusion from an unlikely donor — a dog.

Buttercup was admitted to Marathon Veterinary Hospital in Marathon, Fla. last month when his owner noticed the year-and-a-half-old cat was unusually lethargic, had lost his appetite, and had even collapsed, said Dr. Sean Perry, the veterinarian who performed the transfusion. His vets soon determined that Buttercup's red blood cell count, or packed cell volume, was dangerously low, and the animal needed a blood transfusion — fast.

There was no cat blood immediately on hand, and it would have taken 24-48 hours to get some, Perry said — longer than Buttercup could afford to wait. "A mammal typically has a packed cell volume of anywhere between 35 and 50," Perry said. "But Buttercup came in with a packed cell volume of seven."

Luckily, the hospital had a supply of donated dog blood on hand. Like some humans, some dogs have a universal blood donor type which is compatible with any other blood type, which is what Perry gave Buttercup. Interspecies transfusions, or xenotransfusions, are uncommon but not unheard of, Perry said — Buttercup actually isn't the first cat on record to get a blood transfusion from a dog. But that being said, they haven't been thoroughly researched, so they typically aren't recommended.

Perry also warned that you can only perform a xenotransfusion once. After that, the body builds up antibodies against the foreign cells. "If you reintroduce those same type of cells into the body again, the body would go on attack mode and break down all those cells and potentially have a severe anaphylactic reaction," Perry said.

Hopefully, Buttercup won't be needing any more transfusions. The dog blood did the trick, and he's back at home and doing just fine.

(h/t wlky.com)

SEE ALSO: A Baby Bear Was Mysteriously Found Dead In Central Park

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The pet dog belonging to Spanish nurse Teresa Romero Ramos, who was hospitalized after contracting Ebola earlier this week, was euthanized on Wednesday afternoon as a precaution to prevent the spread of the virus, despite calls from protestors to save the animal.

Veterinarians at the the Laboratory for Biological Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid performed the procedure.

In a statement, lead veterinarian Javier Rodríguez explained that Excalibur was sedated during the procedure and did not suffer, El Mundo reports.

While the loss of a loved pet is sad, the risk that Ebola could be carried by household pets isn't zero. A 2005 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests there is a risk that dogs could become infected with Ebola and transmit the virus to humans. "Human infection could occur through licking, biting, or grooming," the report states.

And there was cause for concern: Sick with a fever from the virus, Romero had spent a week at home with Excalibur before checking into a hospital. Her husband, Javier Limón, was placed in isolation, although he has shown no symptoms of Ebola.

The dog's death is sad news for Romero and Limón, as well as the more than 300,000 people who signed an online petition to save him. Protestors also started a trend on Twitter using the hashtag #SalvarAExcalibur, Spanish for 'save Excalibur.'

@peta help us spreading the word!! #SalvarAExcalibur"Husband of ebola patient makes internet plea to save his dog"http://t.co/xPL9mRiNfE

— Marta Im Wunderland (@martawunderland) October 7, 2014

Thx María José☮💦❤️ I'll keep my finger crossed that the dog will stay alive! @RIBERABA#SalvarAExcaliburpic.twitter.com/NIRQRb8NaN

— Petra Bentele (@PetraBentele) October 8, 2014

But the risk of an animal — even a beloved pet — carrying the deadly virus is real. For one thing, scientists don't know all that much about dogs and Ebola. They don't know if they could carry the disease, or for how long. And the reason they didn't simply test Excalibur to see if he had Ebola before they killed him is because there is no Ebola test for dogs, as NPR reports.

Without the ability to monitor Excalibur's symptoms (Would a dog with Ebola even develop a fever?) or ask him if he was sick, the Spanish authorities didn't have a whole lot of choice in the matter. If they'd chosen to quarantine the animal, they still wouldn't know how long to keep him under watch. Scientists know, for example, that the virus can develop in a human without showing any symptoms for 21 days. But they have no idea how long it could incubate inside a dog.

Unfortunately for Excalibur, there's still too much scientists don't know about Ebola for them to wait and see.

SEE ALSO: Spanish Nurse Is First Person To Contract Ebola Outside Africa

SEE ALSO: Ebola-Infected Nurse Exposes Huge Cracks In Spanish Healthcare System

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Dogs age at different rates compared to humans, but the simple rule of 7 dog years to 1 human year is far from accurate.

If humans aged seven times slower than dogs, then many of us would be able to reproduce at age 7 and live to be 150. Obviously that's not the case.

The reason that dogs can reach full sexual maturity after only a year is that our canine friends age faster during the first two years of their lives than humans do.

Even this general statement is slightly off since smaller breeds tend to mature faster than larger breeds.

Compared to humans, dogs age more quickly at the beginning of their lives and slower toward the end. Therefore, calculating your dog's age relative to yours is a bit tricky, but luckily it's possible.

Since smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds, it's important to calculate your dog's age according to the right category: small (20 pounds or less), medium (21-50 pounds), large (51-90 pounds), or giant (over 90 pounds).

 The data in this chart was gathered from Priceonomics.

Although the origins of the seven-year myth is unknown, people have been trying to find a good way to calculate dog years in human years since the 1200s. One of the earliest examples of this is an inscription at Westminster Abbey that dates to the year 1268 and calculates that one human year is equivalent to nine dog years, which was part of some strange way to calculate the end of the world in the 1200s.

The seven-year rule is thought to much more recent. A veterinarian at Kansas State University told The Wall Street Journal: "My guess is it was a marketing ploy. It was a way to encourage owners to bring in their pets at least once a year."

We originally learned about the information in this post through an article in Pricenomics.

SEE ALSO: 35 Science 'Facts' That Are Totally Wrong

READ MORE: The Dog Breeds That Live The Longest

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Dallas officials have decided against killing the dog belonging to the nurse diagnosed with Ebola this weekend.

Excalibur, the dog of the Spanish nurse hospitalized with Ebola last week, was euthanized over fears that it could transmit the virus to people and other animals. But this dog will be spared.

This is a family-provided photo of Nina Pham, the Dallas healthcare worker (and her dog) who is infected with #Ebolapic.twitter.com/3Fj5MHZllk

— Brian Ries (@moneyries) October 13, 2014

There's a tiny snag, however: Neither animal was tested for the virus — we don't have a test for Ebola in dogs.

Excalibur's death was terrible news for the owner and dog lovers worldwide, many of whom took to Twitter or signed an online petition protesting Spain's decision to put down the animal. Yet the science suggests his life was not taken for no reason: There is very limited evidence, but there does seem to be some risk that dogs could become infected with Ebola and transmit the virus to humans. "Human infection could occur through licking, biting, or grooming,"a 2005 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

So why was this dog spared? Unlike in Spain, where the Madrid Department of Health issued an executive order to euthanize Excalibur, in the US all it took was a statement from Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings to spare the animal. The pet is being sent to a new location to await the recovery of its owner.

"The dog’s very important to the patient and we want it to be safe," Rawlings told USA Today.

The dog will be "monitored," said David Lakey, the commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services on Monday. But he did not provide additional details about what that monitoring would entail.

Without a test to ensure the dog isn't carrying the virus, its safety will be difficult to determine. We don't really know how to monitor its symptoms — would a dog with Ebola even develop symptoms we recognize, like a fever? — or ask if it is sick.

If we quarantine the dog, we still wouldn't know how long to keep it under watch. Scientists know, for example, that the virus can develop in a human without showing any symptoms for 21 days. But they have no idea how long it could incubate inside a dog.

After reporting a fever on Friday night, the Dallas nurse with Ebola drove herself to the emergency room of Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital where she worked. But before she came to the ER, the nurse missed two days of work, The New York Times reports. During this time, the nurse could have been home with her pet.

SEE ALSO: Spain Just Killed Excalibur, The Dog Of The Nurse Infected With Ebola

DON'T MISS: The Second US Ebola Patient Has Been Identified

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Photographer Jeff Schultz has always loved adventure. In 1978, he moved from California's Bay Area to Alaska with dreams of log cabins and self-sufficient living. Since then, he has traveled and photographed all over the state, seeking thrills and great images.

And there's no Alaskan event more thrilling than the Annual Iditarod Race, which pits dog sled racers, known as "mushers," and teams of 16 sled dogs against each other in a slog across more than 1,100 frozen miles of Alaskan wilderness.

Schultz began photographing the event in 1981 and become the Iditarod's official photographer in 1982. He has taken over 50,000 images of every musher, checkpoint, and weather condition imaginable. Next year will be Schultz's 35th time covering the event, and he is releasing a book, titled "Chasing Dogs: My Adventures As The Official Photographer Of Alaska's Iditarod," which includes many of his race photos, as well as stories from the trail. 

We asked him to share with us some photos and insight into the legendary race. More can be seen at his extensive photo website.

Jeff Schultz has been photographing the Iditarod since 1981. He had moved to Alaska three years earlier "seeking adventure," he tells Business Insider.

Schultz first began shooting the race after he took the portrait of Joe Redington Sr., known as the "Father of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race," who helped found the first Iditarod in 1967.

At first, Schultz knew very little about the Iditarod. "I had no idea where the trail really was and how the mushers navigated the trail or how the trail was put in," he says.

Pets can be a delightful addition to your household, but they aren't cheap, and dogs can be especially tough on families looking to save.

If you're looking to bring a canine into your life, there's a lot to consider from a financial perspective. There's the cost to buy the dog, of course. But then it's important to factor in the cost of ownership during the dog's lifetime. There's food, visits to the veterinarian, grooming sessions, and insurance, as well as dog walking, daycare, and other services you may need. This can add up to more than $1,000 annually, and can truly skyrocket if your dog has serious health problems.

The good news is that there are many dogs that, relatively speaking, can be bought and cared for without busting your household budget.

We've provided a list here of dog breeds that are considered relatively inexpensive to own. They have a number of things in common: They are smaller in size, relatively easy to groom, and are generally pretty healthy. (Note that this list applies to purebreds only — mixed breeds will be even less expensive.)

While many of these dogs are good-natured, they are also energetic and may give a beating to your carpets and furniture. So take that into account when factoring the cost of owning the dog.

We've given each dog a "Wags for your buck" score, based on a 10 point scale and reflecting the total cost of ownership of the dog. (The more wags, the better value.)

Cocker spaniel

Cost to acquire: Can be had for less than $100, often from a rescue.

Food: These are smaller dogs, between 15 and 30 pounds, so they won't eat an enormous amount. They also do not require any special kinds of dog food.

Grooming: Cocker spaniels do require some grooming, as they grow long hair and shed a moderate amount, and you may find that it's too much work to do yourself. Professional grooming is recommended at least every other month, at a cost of $50 a session.

Health: These are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to eye and ear infections. One study from TR Cutler, a veterinary marketing program, placed Cocker Spaniels in the top 10 in breeds receiving the most veterinary care. Cocker spaniels generally live about 10-12 years, which is slightly shorter than other purebred dogs.

Wags for your buck: 8

Affenpinscher

Cost to acquire: These dogs can be purchased for several hundred dollars from breeders or rescues, but prices did go up after an Affenpinscher won the Westminster dog show in 2013.

Food: These are some of the smallest dogs around, usually topping out at about 10 pounds, so they won't eat you out of house and home. Half a cup of dry dog food should do the trick each day.

Grooming: Because these are small dogs, grooming is not a major chore, but they do have coarse hair that you'll need to take care of from time to time.

Health: Affenpinschers are healthy canines, but they can be prone to fractures and other orthopedic problems. Affenpinschers generally live about 11 years, which is a shorter lifespan than many dogs.

Wags for your buck: 7

Australian terrier

Cost to acquire: These spirited dogs may not be easy to find unless you buy direct from a breeder. (I was unable to find any available to adopt in my area.) These are small dogs, but don't be surprised if you end up paying $750 or more for a puppy.

Food: Like Affenpinschers, these are small dogs that weigh in at less than 15 pounds.

Grooming: Petfinder.com suggests going in for a professional grooming about twice a year. Otherwise, trim around the feet and your dog should be in fine shape.

Health: Like other small dogs, Australian Terriers are generally healthy, but keep an eye out for fractures and hip dysplasia. These dogs live an average of about 11 years.

Wags for your buck: 8

Feist

Cost to acquire: These small and energetic hunting dogs can be had for under $200, possibly less if you find one to adopt.

Food: Feist dogs rarely top 30 pounds, so they won't eat more than a moderate amount, though you may find that they'll eat more than expected due to their energetic nature.

Grooming: Unlike other smaller canines, feist dogs are not particularly hairy, and so grooming won't represent a major expense. Just brush them regularly and remove any dead hair.

Health: These are healthy dogs, but they are extremely active, and therefore more susceptible to injury than other breeds. Life span is about 11 years, which is average for a dog this size.

Wags for your buck: 7

 Beagle

Cost to acquire: $500 to $850, though you may find one for less from rescues.

Food: Beagles are a bit larger than some of the other dogs on this list, but can still be fed for less than $10 a week. They stand anywhere from 13 to 15 inches, weighing in at 22 to 25 pounds.

Grooming: Beagles have short and smooth coats, so they don't require heavy grooming. They do shed, but that can be handled by brushing the dog at home a few times a week.

Health: Beagles are healthy dogs, but have been known to get some forms of cancer, and some do suffer from heart arrhythmia. Life expectancy is good, between 12 and 15 years.

Wags for your buck: 6

Foxhound

Cost to acquire: English or American Foxhounds can be bought for as little as $200, and may even be available from shelters and rescues.

Food: These hounds are larger dogs, coming in at between 65 and 75 pounds. So they will eat more than the small dogs listed here. However, they still can be fed for less than $25 a week.

Grooming: These are short-haired canines, for the most part. Frequent brushing will be needed, but fancy grooming isn't required.

Health: These are healthy dogs and are free from many of the genetic maladies that plague some pure breeds.

Wags for your buck: 6 

SEE ALSO: 10 Ridiculously Easy Ways To Save Money Right Now

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It's time to start prepping Fido for trick-or-treating.

The pet Halloween costume business is booming, with consumers expected to spend some $350 million to dress up their pets, according to the NRF.

Earlier this year, we stopped by the trendy James Hotel in SoHo, New York for a dog Halloween fashion show put on by PetSmart.

From caterpillars to bats, cowboys to hamburgers, these are the hottest pet costumes this Halloween.

This golden retriever opted for the banana split costume. While we liked the theme of 'retro dessert,' we think she should have picked something that didn't wash her coat out so much. 

Meanwhile, this smaller pooch got flashy in a bright caterpillar rider.

A tiny Pomeranian exhibited some diva-like behavior in her Martha Stewart tutu and hair feathers. 

But wasn't all fun and games. The Golden Retriever returned in a no-nonsense shark costume...

...and there seemed to be a bit of drama when this dog put on a Miss Piggy wig. She was NOT having it.

Meanwhile, this guinea pig loved its pumpkin-themed costume. PetSmart confided that guinea pig outfits "exploded" last year, prompting them to make a ton more.

Bearded Dragons got in on the fun too. This guy looked radiant in his ethereal purple wings. 

If you've ever seen behind-the-scenes of the fashion show, you know styling isn't a one-man job. Here, concerned handlers helped a dog transform into Eeyore.

And we'd say the finished product was well worth it.

This year's PetSmart costumes range from $12.99 to $26.99, and come in sizes XS to XXL.

SEE ALSO: A 17-Year-Old Yo-Yo Genius Won The World Title With These Incredible Tricks

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